HEIGHT up to 33 ft (10 m)
TYPE Evergreen
OCCURRENCE Madagascar, E. Africa
This imposing African palm has the largest leaves of any tree. They are the source of raffia, a natural fiber. Its flowers are borne in clusters of thousands, on a drooping shoot that looks like a large rope. BARK Pale gray or brown, with leaf scars. LEAF Pinnate, to 65 ft (20 m) long. FLOWER Borne on the same inflorescence; males: on top, large, tubular; females: at bottom, small. FRUIT Oval, scaly brown drupe.
